Young Victorian carers benefit from mental health funding boost
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Young Victorian carers will now receive the extra support they need after the Government gave an $11.98 million funding boost for the Satellite Foundation.
The boost will help the Satellite Foundation expand its range of programs and support services. The not-for-profit organisation delivers programs and assistance for children and young people up to the age of 25 who have a parent or family member living with a mental illness or psychological distress.
“The Satellite Foundation connects young carers with similar experiences so that they know they are not alone, as well as offering them programs and services to help with their own mental health,” Minister for Mental Health James Merlino said.
The Foundation will have the youth engaged throughout the expansion process of their programs and support services to ensure that all activities are age-appropriate, accessible and effective.
The Foundation will also partner with schools to deliver programs and resources that encourage conversations about mental illness and its impact on the mental health of young carers and families.
Significantly expanding the reach of these programs through schools will help more young Victorians and their families. The programs will provide young carers tailored information and support through online and face-to-face programs.
Activities that foster creativity such as photography, art and music workshops will also be available to the youth. The Foundation also offers respite activities and camps which encourage peer support and ongoing connection for program participants.
The Government’s funding boost in the Foundation’s programs came after the Royal Commission into Victoria’s Mental Health System identified that one in four children that live with a parent or carer has a mental illness or psychological distress.
Without support, these children and young people are at greater risk of developing their own mental health issues.
“These young Victorians bear responsibilities well beyond their years – looking after loved ones with mental illness. This investment will give them the support and care they need,” Premier Daniel Andrews said.
“We’re implementing every single recommendation of the Royal Commission into Victoria’s Mental Health System – because every single one will help change lives and save lives.”
The Victorian Budget 2021-22 invested a record $3.8 billion in mental health and wellbeing services and support, including $93 million to provide dedicated help for families and carers.
Eliza is a content producer and editor at Public Spectrum. She is an experienced writer on topics related to the government and to the public, as well as stories that uplift and improve the community.
